1) Rodriguez released Cold Fact and Coming from Reality in 1970 and 1971, respectively. Neither initially charted in the United States. The singer-songwriter moved on: earning a degree in philosophy, working construction, and trying to improve his native Detroit through activism. He unsuccessfully ran for different political offices in Michigan while unknowingly inspiring anti-Apartheid activists with his albums, which were hits in South Africa. Rodriquez knew nothing of his fame there; fans conversely thought he had committed suicide. That is, until his eldest daughter discovered a South African fansite in 1997. He soon toured the country for his thousands of fans. The late Swedish filmmaker Malik Bendjelloul documented Rodriguez’s story in the Oscar-winning movie, Searching for Sugar Man. Rodriguez finally got the attention he deserved stateside, where he performed on “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” He will play the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall this month. Cat Clyde opens. 8 p.m. 510 E. 10th Ave., Munhall. (CM)

2) Do you fancy yourself a rock star? Then the place for you tonight is Rock Star Karaoke at the South Side’s Smiling Moose. In addition to pleasing everyone with your great renditions of famous rock songs you’ll enjoy $3 Captain cocktails and half off all Troegs beer from 9-11 p.m. Karaoke starts at 9:30 p.m. DJ T-$ cues the music for you the rock star. 1306 E. Carson St.